Luggage article control handle

ABSTRACT

A handle assembly of a luggage article is disclosed. The handle assembly may be configured to detect input from a user that is used to manipulate an orientation and/or speed of articulable wheels or other support members of the luggage article. In an example, the handle includes an engagement portion that is slideable and twistable relative to a main portion of the handle. A sensor assembly within the handle detects the sliding, twisting, and magnitude thereof. The detected input may be used by one or more processing units of the luggage article to control a direction and speed of the wheels.

FIELD

The described examples relate generally to luggage articles. More particularly, the present examples relate to controlling a luggage article using inputs detected by a handle.

BACKGROUND

In luggage articles, a handle may be employed to manipulate movement of the article. In many traditional luggage articles, the handle is solely a mechanical structure engaged with a body or shell of the article. As such, physical manipulation of the handle causes the body or other associated or attached structure of the article to move accordingly. And while wheels or other support members may facilitate such movement, often such wheels are unpowered or unassisted. A luggage article often contains a user's belongings, which may be heavy, bulky, and so on, thus possibly demanding an elevated level of exertion by the user to manipulate the luggage article. Thus there is a need for systems and techniques that can be used to facilitate assisted control of the luggage article movement.

SUMMARY

Examples of the present invention are directed to a luggage article and a handle assembly including a sensor assembly for detecting input used to manipulate movements of the luggage article.

In an example, a handle assembly of a luggage article is disclosed. The luggage article includes articulable wheels. Than handle assembly includes a main portion connected to a retractable feature of the luggage article. The luggage article further includes an engagement portion slidable and twistable relative to the main portion. The luggage article further includes a sensor assembly within the main portion and configured to initiate a control signal based on a sliding or a twisting of the engagement portion. The handle assembly is communicatively coupled with the luggage article for steering the articulable wheels using the control signal.

In another example, the retractable feature includes two trolley rails substantially parallel to one another and retractable into a body of the luggage article. The main portion defines an elongated handle grip of the luggage article extending between the two trolley rails. The engagement portion covers the main portion opposite the two trolley rails. The sensor assembly further includes a first sensor configured to detect the sliding of the engagement portion along an elongated direction of the main portion. The sensor assembly further includes a second sensor configured to detect the twisting of the engagement portion about a rotational axis substantially parallel with the two trolley rails.

In another example, at least one of the first sensor or the second sensor includes a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor is configured to detect a magnitude of a respective one of the sliding or the twisting of the engagement portion. The control signal indicates the magnitude detected by the pressure sensor. The sensor assembly further includes a lateral engagement feature protruding from the main portion. The engagement portion further includes an underside, the underside configured to move the lateral engagement feature in response to the sliding of the engagement portion.

In another example, the sensor assembly further includes a sled connected to the lateral engagement feature and within the main portion. The lateral engagement feature and sled cooperate to move the sled laterally in response to the sliding of the engagement portion and to trigger a switch event. In some cases, the lateral engagement feature may be a first lateral engagement feature. In this regard, the sensor assembly further includes a second lateral engagement feature protruding from the main portion and offset from the first lateral engagement feature. The underside of the engagement portion may be further configured to move the first lateral engagement feature in a first direction in response to a sliding of the engagement portion in the first direction. Additionally or alternatively, the engagement portion may be further configured to move the second lateral engagement feature in a second direction, substantially opposite the first direction, in response to a sliding of the engagement portion in the second direction. As such, the sensor assembly may be configured to distinguish between the movement of the first lateral engagement feature and the movement of the second lateral engagement feature.

In another example, the control signal includes information associated with a direction of movement of the engagement portion. The control signal may affect an orientation of the articulable wheels toward the direction of movement. In some cases, the handle assembly may further include a tactile feedback structure configured to resist one or both of the sliding or the twisting of the engagement portion.

In another example, a handle assembly of a luggage article is disclosed. The handle assembly includes a main portion defining a housing interior. The handle assembly includes an engagement portion over the housing interior. In a first mode, the engagement portion is moveable along a first direction of the main portion. In a second mode, the engagement portion is moveable along a second direction of the main portion. The handle assembly further includes a sensor assembly within the housing interior and configured to detect a value of the movement of the engagement portion in the first direction and the second direction.

In another example, the sensor assembly includes one or more pressure sensors configured to detect a degree of displacement of the engagement portion in one or both of the first direction or the second direction. The first direction may be a lateral direction. The engagement portion may be slideable in the first direction in the first mode. Further, the second direction may be a rotational direction. The engagement portion may be rotatable in the second direction in the second mode.

In another example, the main portion defines a notched region along an exterior top surface. The engagement portion may be seated within the notched region. The main portion defines a first end region and a second end region. The notched region may be arranged between the first end region and the second end region. In some cases, an exterior top surface of the engagement portion is substantially flush with each of an exterior top surface of the first end region and an exterior top surface of the second end region. The engagement portion may remain substantially contained within the notched region during the movement associated with each of the first mode and the second mode.

In another example, a handle assembly of a luggage article is disclosed. The handle assembly includes a housing assembly connected to a retractable feature of the luggage article. The housing assembly has a moveable engagement portion. The handle assembly further includes a first sensor within the housing assembly and configured to detect a first movement of the engagement portion along a lateral direction of the housing assembly. The handle assembly further includes a second sensor within the housing assembly and configured to detect a second movement of the engagement portion about a normal axis of the housing assembly. The first sensor and the second sensor are communicatively coupled with a control component of the luggage article. The control component is responsive to each of the first movement of the first sensor and the second movement of the second sensor.

In another example, the second sensor is a pair of second sensors. In this regard, a first of the pair of second sensors may be configured to detect a first rotation of the engagement portion about the normal axis and in a substantially clockwise direction. Further, a second of the pair of second sensors may be configured to detect a second rotation of the engagement portion about the normal axis and in a substantially counterclockwise direction.

In another example, the engagement portion defines an underside. Each of the pair of second sensors protrude from an interior of the housing assembly and toward the underside. The underside may contact the first of the pair of second sensors in response to the first rotation of the engagement portion, thereby triggering a first rotational switch event. The underside may further contact the second of the pair of second sensors in response to the second rotation of the engagement portion, thereby triggering a second rotational switch event.

In another example, the luggage article includes articulable wheels associated with the control component. In response to the first rotational switch event, the articulable wheels orient in the substantially clockwise direction. Further, in response to the second rotational switch event, the articulable wheels orient in the substantially counterclockwise direction.

In another example, the housing assembly further includes a base defining an interior housing of the first sensor and the second sensor. The housing assembly further includes a cover substantially enclosing the base and defining a first aperture on a top surface and a second aperture on a side surface. In some cases, the first sensor may be at least partially positioned within the first aperture. Further, the second sensor may be at least partially positioned within the second aperture. The engagement portion may be positioned over the cover and overlapping both of the first sensor and the second sensor.

In addition to the exemplary aspects and examples described above, further aspects and examples will become apparent by reference to the drawings and by study of the following description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which:

FIG. 1A depicts a front isometric view of a luggage article;

FIG. 1B depicts a rear isometric view of the luggage article of FIG. 1A and showing a handle assembly in a retracted position;

FIG. 1C depicts a rear isometric view of the luggage article of FIG. 1A and showing a handle assembly in an extended position;

FIG. 1D depicts an isometric view of the luggage article of FIG. 1A in an open configuration and showing a control assembly;

FIG. 1E depicts an underside of the handle assembly of FIG. 1C;

FIG. 1F depicts a side view of the luggage article of FIG. 1A with power-assisted wheels in a retracted configuration;

FIG. 1G depicts a side view of the luggage article of FIG. 1A with power-assisted wheels in an extended configuration;

FIG. 2 depicts an example of a handle assembly in a retracted position;

FIG. 3A depicts a luggage article in a configuration corresponding to a manipulation of a handle assembly;

FIG. 3B depicts a luggage article in another configuration corresponding to a manipulation of a handle assembly;

FIG. 4A depicts a luggage article in another configuration corresponding to a manipulation of a handle assembly;

FIG. 4B depicts a luggage article in another configuration corresponding to a manipulation of a handle assembly;

FIG. 5 depicts a partial exploded view of another example of handle assembly;

FIG. 6 depicts an example of a sensor assembly of the handle assembly of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 depicts one or more sensors of the handle assembly of FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 depicts a push button mechanism of the handle assembly of FIG. 5;

FIG. 9 depicts a flow diagram for controlling a luggage article; and

FIG. 10 depicts a functional block diagram of a luggage article.

The use of cross-hatching or shading in the accompanying figures is generally provided to clarify the boundaries between adjacent elements and also to facilitate legibility of the figures. Accordingly, neither the presence nor the absence of cross-hatching or shading conveys or indicates any preference or requirement for particular materials, material properties, element proportions, element dimensions, commonalities of similarly illustrated elements, or any other characteristic, attribute, or property for any element illustrated in the accompanying figures.

Additionally, it should be understood that the proportions and dimensions (either relative or absolute) of the various features and elements (and collections and groupings thereof) and the boundaries, separations, and positional relationships presented therebetween, are provided in the accompanying figures merely to facilitate an understanding of the various examples described herein and, accordingly, may not necessarily be presented or illustrated to scale, and are not intended to indicate any preference or requirement for an illustrated example to the exclusion of examples described with reference thereto.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The description that follows includes sample systems, methods, and apparatuses that embody various elements of the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that the described disclosure may be practiced in a variety of forms in addition to those described herein.

The present disclosure describes systems, devices, and techniques related to luggage articles and associated control systems and input structures. Luggage articles, such as cases, duffle bags, and other containers described herein may generally include a handle that is used to carry or tow the article. For example, the luggage article may include articulable wheels or other support members, and a user may physically manipulate the handle to control movements of the article. Moving the luggage may thus require physical exertion by the user. However, with the luggage article containing large and possibly heavy or bulky belongings, relying solely on physical forces provided by a user to move and steer the luggage article may prove unwieldy and limit the adaptability and versatility of the luggage article for a variety of potential user groups.

The luggage articles described herein may mitigate such hindrances, thereby allowing for manipulation of the luggage article (including steering and propulsion) that is not solely reliant on the physical exertions of the user. For example, described herein is a handle assembly that detects input that is used to manipulate movements of the luggage article. The handle assembly may be, or form, a component or assembly of, a tow handle, a retractable handle, a trolley system, and/or other gripping portion of the luggage article that is configured for engagement by a user.

The handle assembly may be communicatively coupled to one or more control systems or components of the luggage article. Such control components may provide power-assist or otherwise cause the articulable wheels or other support structures to move and thus propel the luggage article separate from the force provided at the handle. Additionally or alternatively, the control component of the luggage article may operate to cause the articulable wheels to steer, orientate, or otherwise be positioned in a desired direction, and thereby allow the luggage article to move in a corresponding direction upon propulsion of the wheels. Sample mechanisms include induction-driven units, including high-torque configurations, and rotary actuators, including adjustable-speed drives, as examples, each of which may directly or indirectly cause movement of the articulable wheels, as described in greater detail below. For example, in some examples, separate guide, driven or “power-assist” wheels may be propelled or orientated by a control component, and the articulable wheels (such as those at the corners of a case) may follow the manipulations of the power-assist wheels.

Broadly, the handle assembly may detect user input and the user input is used to manipulate (e.g., steer, propel) wheels of the luggage article. To facilitate the foregoing, the handle assembly may include an engagement portion that is moveable relative to a main portion or other structure of the handle assembly. The handle assembly includes a sensor assembly, including one or more pressure sensors configured to detect the movement of the engagement portion and/or a value or magnitude of the movement. In turn, the sensor assembly may generate a control signal or other electrical response based on the detected movement.

The various control components and systems of the luggage article may use this control signal to move the luggage article in a corresponding direction and at a corresponding rate. For example, in response to a movement of the engagement portion in a first direction, the luggage article may move in the first direction, whereas in response in a movement of the engagement portion in a second direction, the luggage article may move in a second direction. The sensor assembly may also be configured to detect a value or degree of the movement of the engagement portion (e.g., using various arrangements of pressure sensors), and as such, the luggage article may be propelled at a rate based at least partially on the detected degree of movement in the appropriate direction.

Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which assist in illustrating various features of the present disclosure. The following description is presented for purposes of illustration and description. Furthermore, the description is not intended to limit the inventive aspects to the forms disclosed herein. Consequently, variations and modifications commensurate with the following teachings, skill, and knowledge of the relevant art are within the scope of the present inventive aspects.

FIGS. 1A-1G depict a luggage article 100 having a handle assembly 160, such as the handle assembly generally discussed above and described in greater detail below. The luggage article 100 may generally be a power-assisted luggage article having articulable wheels and/or other support members. As described in greater detail below, one or more internal control components (e.g., control components 190, including power-assisted wheels) of the luggage article 100 may cause the articulable wheels to move, and as such, movement of the wheels not may not be solely reliant on the efforts of a user.

According to the examples described herein, the handle assembly 160 may be configured to receive user input. The handle assembly 160 uses a detection of the input to generate one or more signals that cause movement of the luggage article 100, including signals that are used to influence speed and direction of the luggage article 100. Sample inputs include a sliding or twisting input. The handle assembly 160 and/or other processing unit or control logic of the luggage article 100 may distinguish between a direction of input, and in some cases determine a magnitude of the input. Wheels of the luggage article 100, in conjunction with the control components 190, may be responsive to the inputs, including orientating in a direction corresponding to a direction of the input and moving (e.g., rotating) at a rate corresponding to a magnitude of the input.

While the handle assembly 160 may be implemented in a variety of different types or luggage articles, suitcases, and so on, described in greater detail below, with reference to FIGS. 1A-1G, the luggage article 100 is shown and described as a sample example. Broadly, the luggage article 100 shown in FIGS. 1A-1G, includes a housing 102 formed from a plurality of walls or panels (hereinafter “panels” for the sake of convenience without intent to limit) defining an internal storage volume 103 in which to carry a user's belongings. In one example, the housing 102, may be formed from opposing front and rear panels 104, 108 and a plurality of side panels extending between the front and rear panels 104, 108. For instance, the luggage article 100 may include opposing top and bottom panels 112, 116 and opposing left and right side panels 120, 124 extending between the front and rear panels 104, 108. Corner regions 128 may be defined by the intersection of any two or three adjacent panels.

The luggage article 100 illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1G is an upright hard side case but may be any type of luggage, including a soft side case, a container, a backpack, a duffle bag, a purse, or the like. As shown, the luggage article 100 includes a first shell portion 132 and a second shell portion 136 defined by a split line 140. The first and second shell portions 132, 136, which may be right and left shell portions or halves, respectively, may be sized similarly to each other, or one of the shell portions may be sized to include a larger or smaller internal volume. Each shell may include a perimeter rim at the split line 140. The perimeter rims may abut each other when the luggage article 100 is closed. In some examples, such as that shown in FIGS. 1A-1G, each shell portion 132 or 136 may include an edge piece 144 that defines a respective perimeter rim, which may enhance aesthetic and/or functional characteristic of the luggage article 100. In some cases, one or both of the shell portions 132, 136 may include carry handles, such as carry handles 154 shown generally in FIGS. 1A-1G. Additionally, the luggage article 100 may include a closure mechanism 148 to selectively secure the first shell portion 132 to the second shell portion 136 to one another.

The luggage article 100 may generally be manipulated between a closed configuration and an open configuration. In the closed configuration (shown in FIGS. 1A-1C), the first and second shell portions 132, 136 may be positioned adjacent to each other, and in one example with the respective perimeter rims engaging one another, to enclose a user's belongings within the internal storage volume of the luggage article 100.

As shown in FIG. 1D, the luggage article 100 may be manipulated in an open configuration. This may allow a user access to an internal storage volume 103 of the luggage article 100. In particular, the first and second shell portions 132, 136 are shown in FIG. 1D oriented relative to each other to allow user access to the interior of the luggage article 100. To allow selective movement of the first and second shell portions 132, 136 between the open and closed configurations, the first and second shell portions 132, 136 may be pivotably attached together by a hinge 150 or similar mechanism. In such examples, the first and second shell portions 132, 136 may be pivoted about the hinge 150 towards or way from each other to selectively close or open the luggage article 100, respectively. A base 151 or other trim piece may substantially cover the hinge 150 within the internal storage volume 103.

The luggage article 100 may include one or more support members 180 to support the luggage article 100 against a support surface (e.g., against the ground). Broadly, the support members 180, which may be a foot, a fixed wheel assembly, a wheel assembly, or any combination thereof, may be associated with any suitable panel of the housing 102, such as in at least one example connected to at least the bottom panel 122.

In the example of FIGS. 1A-1G, the support members 180 include wheel assemblies. The wheel assemblies include articulable wheels in that the wheels are configured to rotate about an axis perpendicular to the ground or support surfaces, in some case by 360 degrees. Such rotation allows luggage article 100 to be steered in a desired direction, and the wheels will rotate into the appropriate configuration. Additionally, the wheels are configured to rotate about an axis that is substantially parallel the ground. This rotation of the support members 180 may allow the luggage article 100 to move.

While the support members 180 may include a variety of appropriate components to facilitate movement of the luggage article 100, in the example of FIGS. 1A-1G each of the support members 180 is shown as including at least a wheel portion 182, an articulable portion 184, and a mount structure 186. The wheel portion 182 may be a substantially circular feature that is configured for engagement with a ground or other support surface upon which the luggage article is placed.

The wheel portion 182 may be coupled with the articulable portion 184, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1G. The articulable portion 184 may provide a structural linkage between the wheel portion 182 and housing 102. The articulable portion 184 may also pivot or rotate about a longitudinal axis that extends substantially perpendicular to the ground. The wheel portion 182 is shown coupled to the articulable portion 184. In this manner, the wheel portion 182 may turn, orientate, rotate, and so on relative to the luggage article 100. In some cases, the wheel portion 182 and the articulable portion 184 may define a caster configuration, which may help the wheel portion 182 orientate in a direction of travel of the luggage article 100. The articulable portion 184 may be coupled to the mount structure 186. The mount structure 186 may include a variety of structural features for receiving the articulable portion 184, and/or allowing the articulable portion 184 to rotate about its longitudinal axis and define a structural interface that facilitates coupling of the wheel portion 182 to the housing 102.

The luggage article 100 may include additional control assemblies and components that are used to propel and orientate the luggage article 100. Such control assemblies can include wheels, belts, conveyors, and the like that cooperate to move the luggage article 100. The movement may occur with the assistance of a motor, such as an electric or induction motor. In this manner, the luggage article 100 may be caused to move without relying solely on the efforts of a user, for example, in pulling a handle.

To facilitate the foregoing, the luggage article 100 includes control components 190, which may be or include a first power-assisted wheel assembly 190 a and a second power-assisted wheel assembly 190 b. Each of the first power-assisted wheel assembly 190 a and the second power-assisted wheel assembly 190 b may include active or “driven” wheels. In this manner, the first power-assisted wheel assembly 190 a and the second power-assisted wheel assembly 190 b may have or be coupled with a motor or other drive mechanism, and associated drive components, to power the associated driven wheel. The first power-assisted wheel assembly 190 a and the second power-assisted wheel assembly 190 b may be powered by a variety of appropriate techniques in order to provide power to the respective driven wheels. As one example, the luggage article 100 include a battery assembly 176 within the internal storage volume 103. As described in greater detail below with respect to FIG. 10, the battery assembly 176 includes components that supply electrical power to components of the luggage article 100. The battery assembly 176 may include a removable battery and/or a charging system that operates to store power internally within the luggage article 100.

The first power-assisted wheel assembly 190 a and the second power-assisted wheel assembly 190 b may cooperate to rotate the respective driven wheels in a common direction, thereby advancing the luggage article 100 in the common direction (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B). Further, the driven wheels of the first power-assisted wheel assembly 190 a and the second power-assisted wheel assembly 190 b may be rotated in substantially opposing directions, thereby causing the luggage article 100 to turn or rotate (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B).

As shown in FIG. 1D, the luggage article 100 may include the first power-assisted wheel assembly 190 a and the second power-assisted wheel assembly 190 b substantially within the internal storage volume 103. In particular, the first power-assisted wheel assembly 190 a is shown integrated with the first shell portion 132 and the second power-assisted wheel assembly 190 b is shown integrated with the second shell portion 136. While the first power-assisted wheel assembly 190 a and the second power-assisted wheel assembly 190 b may include distinct structures and components, in the example of the luggage article 100 each of the first power-assisted wheel assembly 190 a and the second power-assisted wheel assembly 190 b may be substantially analogous to one another. In this regard, features described with respect to one of power-assisted wheels assemblies, may be included in the other of the power-assisted wheel assemblies; however, this is not required.

The first power-assisted wheel assembly 190 a is shown in FIG. 1D as including a control housing 192. The control housing 192 may generally include a motor or other mechanism that is configured to propel a driven wheel. Sample mechanisms, include electric motors, inductive units, and so on. The control housing 192 is shown in FIG. 1D mounted along the bottom panel 122. The power-assisted wheel assembly 190 a may include an interface structure 194, such as a plate or other substantially rigid structure, that defines a mounting surface for the control housing 192. The interface structure 194 also provides a protective surface that shields the control housing 192 from an external environment of the luggage article 100.

The power-assisted wheel assembly 190 a generally includes a wheel and the control housing 192 includes components that operate to propel or rotate the wheel. In this regard, FIG. 1D includes a power-assisted wheel 196. The power-assisted wheel 196 may be coupled to one or more motor or drive mechanisms, such as those of the control housing 192, which may operate to cause rotation of the power-assisted wheel 196. The power-assisted wheel 196 may extend at least partially through an opening 195 in the interface structure 194 in order to contact a support surface or ground upon which the luggage article 100 rests (e.g., as shown with respect to FIGS. 1F and 1G).

In this manner, rotation of the power-assisted wheel 196 may cause the luggage article 100 to move in a corresponding direction. As described in greater detail below, the articulable wheels of the support structure 180 may be follower-type wheels, in that the articulable wheel may not necessarily be independently rotated or otherwise power assisted. As such, the movement of the luggage article 100 by the power-assisted wheel 196 may cause the articulable wheels of the support members to orientate in a corresponding manner (e.g., as shown in greater detail below with respect to FIGS. 3A-4B).

In the example shown in FIG. 1D, the power-assisted wheel 196 is shown positioned at least partially through the opening 195 and connected to the control housing 192 via an arm 197. The arm 197 defines a linkage between the power-assisted wheel 196 and the control housing 192. At one or both of the control housing 192 or the power-assisted wheel 196, the arm 197 can pivot. The arm 197 is generally manipulateable into a variety of positions relative to the control housing 192. In this manner, the arm 197 and control housing 192 can cooperate to move the power-assisted wheel 196 between a first retracted position (in which the power-assisted wheel 196) is positioned substantially within an interior the luggage article 100) and a second extended position, shown in FIG. 1D (in which the power-assisted wheel 196 is deployed through the interface structure 194).

As generally shown in FIG. 1D, the support members 180 are positioned at the respective corners regions, and may generally cooperate to structurally support the luggage article 100, including a user's contents and belonging therein. Located proximal the center of luggage article 100, the power-assisted wheel assemblies 190 a, 190 b cause the movement of the luggage article 100, for example, through the rotation of the respective power-assisted wheels. This may help initiate the movement of the luggage article 100 near its center of gravity, and thereby facilitate prevention of unbalanced loads that could otherwise tip the luggage article 100.

The luggage article 100 also include the handle assembly 160, such as that shown in FIG. 1E. In addition to the functionality of the handle assembly 160 in detecting user input and generating one or more signals for controlling a speed and/or orientation of the suitcase, the handle assembly 160 also facilitates physical control and carrying of the luggage article 100. Further, the handle assembly 160 may be movable between a retracted position (FIG. 1B) and an extended position (FIG. 1C). As shown in FIG. 1B, in the retracted position, an engagement portion (e.g., engagement portion 164) of the handle assembly 160 may be positioned near or adjacent to the housing 102, such as being at least partially retracted into or towards the housing 102. As shown in FIG. 1C, in the extended position, the engagement portion 164 of the handle assembly 160 may be moved away from the housing 102, thereby allowing a user to traverse the luggage article 100 across a support surface as desired.

The handle assembly 160 may include many configurations facilitating movement of the handle assembly 160 between its retracted and extended positions. For instance, the handle assembly 160 may include one or more retractable features 156, including extensible tubes, poles, trolley rails, and so on (e.g., first pole 156 a and second pole 156 b). Each pole of the retractable features 156 may include one or more telescoping tubes to allow the handle assembly to extend and retract. While the examples of FIGS. 1A-1G show two, substantially parallel poles or trolley rails, in other cases, the luggage article 100 may be configured having a retractable feature with a single pole or trolley rail.

The retractable features 156 are generally received within the luggage article 100 when in a retracted position. For example, the luggage article 100 may include tubes 157 that receive the retractable features 156. As shown in the open configuration of the luggage article 100 (shown in FIG. 1D), the tubes 157 are positioned within the internal storage volume 103. This allows the retractable features 156 to be positioned substantially within an interior of the luggage article 100 and concealed from view when not in use. The tubes 157 also help shield the retractable features 156 from the external environment.

The handle assembly 160 may configured to manipulate the retractable features 156, for example, such as controlling movement of the retractable features 156 between the retracted position and the extended position. With reference to FIG. 1E, the handle assembly 160 may include a retractable feature button 167. In some cases, the retractable features 156 may generally be prevented from telescoping movement, thereby temporarily locking the retractable features 156 in one of the retracted position or the extended position. The retractable feature button 167 may be configured to release the temporarily locked retractable features 156 and thus permit telescoping movement of retractable features 156.

In a particular example, the luggage article 100 includes internal rods 170 (shown in phantom in FIG. 1D) that are positioned within the poles of the retractable features 156. The internal rods 170 are configured for engagement with a locking mechanism 172 that generally prevents telescoping movement of the retractable features 156. The internal rods 170 are manipulateable by the handle assembly 160 to temporarily unseat a pin 174 from the locking mechanism, and thereby allow telescoping movement of the retractable features 156. For example, manipulation of the retractable feature button 167 may therefore cause the internal mechanism of the handle assembly 160 to move the internal rods 170 in a manner that releases the pins 174 from the locking mechanism 172, and as such, allows telescoping movement of the retractable features 156.

The handle assembly 160 also includes a power-assisted wheel button 166. The power-assisted wheel button 166 may be used to manipulate a configuration of the power-assisted wheel assemblies of the luggage article 100. For example, the power-assisted wheel button 166 may detect input (e.g., a press input) and trigger a switch event. The switch event may cause the power-assisted wheel of one or both of the power-assisted wheel assemblies 190 a, 190 b to transition between a first retracted position and a second extended position. This allows the power-assisted wheels to be stored (substantially within the internal storage volume 103), and subsequently deployed for use in propelling the luggage article 100. As described herein, when in the deployed or extended position, the input detected at the engagement portion 164 of the handle assembly 160 causes the power-assisted wheels to move.

FIGS. 1F and 1G illustrate the power-assisted wheel 196 moving from a first retracted position to a second extend position. With reference to FIG. 1F, the power-assisted wheel 196 is shown in the first retracted position. In the first retracted position, the power-assisted wheel 196 is positioned at least partially within the internal storage volume 103. A bottommost portion of the power-assisted wheel 196 may be separated from a support surface 105 (e.g., the ground) by an offset 199.

In response to a detection of input at, for example, the power-assisted wheel button 166, the power-assisted wheel 196 may move from the first retracted position shown in FIG. 1F to a second extended position. With reference to FIG. 1G, the power-assisted wheel 196 is shown in a second extended or deployed position. In the second extended position, the power-assisted wheel 196 is positioned at least partially outside of the internal storage volume 103. The power-assisted wheel 196 is shown contacting the ground 105. The power-assisted wheel 196 may be rotated along rotational direction R₁, thereby causing the luggage article 100 to advance correspondingly along the ground 105. In response to a subsequent input at the power-assisted wheel button 166, the power-assisted wheels 196 may move from the second extended position shown in FIG. 1G to the first retracted position of FIG. 1F.

In some examples, the housing 102 may be configured to accommodate at least portions of the handle assembly 160. By way of example, as shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C, a handle assembly mount 158 may be arranged along an exterior of the housing 102 to at least partially receive the main portion 162 and the engagement portion 164 of the handle assembly 160 when the handle assembly 160 is positioned in its retracted position. The handle assembly mount 158 may also include openings 159 that receive the retractable feature 156 and substantially conceal the retractable features 156 form view when the handle assembly 160 is in the retracted position. In this manner, the tubes 157 may extend from the opening 159 into the internal storage volume 103. The retractable features 156 are therefore concealed by advancing through the openings 159 and into the tubes 157.

FIG. 2 depicts an example of a handle assembly 210. The handle assembly 210 may be substantially analogous to the handle assembly 160 described above with respect to FIGS. 1A-1G. For example, the handle assembly 210 may be a tow handle of a luggage article 200 that is used to physical manipulate, carry, and/or two the luggage article 200. In this regard, the handle assembly 210 may be seated at least partially within a handle assembly mount 202 having openings 204 that receiving retractable members 206, such as in one example telescoping tubes. The handle assembly 210 may also include a retractable feature button 208 and a power-assisted wheel button 209. As the luggage article 200, handle assembly mount 202, opening 204, retractable features 206, retractable feature button 208, and the power-assisted wheel button 209 may be substantially analogous to like features described with respect to FIGS. 1A-1G, redundant explanation of which is omitted here for clarity.

FIG. 2 shows the handle assembly 210 having a main portion 212 and an engagement portion 216. The main portion 212 and the engagement portion may collectively define a housing assembly. The main portion 212 may be connected to the retractable features 206 of the luggage article 200. For example, the main portion 212 may be fixed to each of the trolley rails, poles, or other substantially parallel and telescoping features of the retractable features 206. The main portion 212 may define a housing interior that includes various sensor assemblies of the handle assembly 210, such as those for detecting input and generating a corresponding control signal.

The main portion 212 may be an integral or one-piece structure that defines the internal volume of the handle assembly 210. In the example of FIG. 2, the main portion 212 includes a main portion shell 214 a and a main portion cap 214 b. The main portion shell 214 a may define an attachment structure for connecting the main portion 212 to the retractable features 206. The main portion shell 214 a may also have a trough-shaped interior that is configured to receive the various sensor assemblies of the handle assembly 210, described herein. The main portion cap 214 b may be a fitting, cover, shield, and so forth, that conceals the sensor assemblies within the main portion shell 214 a. The main portion cap 214 b may also provide a gripping portion or other external feature that allows a user to manipulate the handle assembly 210 more generally.

The handle assembly also includes an engagement portion 216. Broadly, the engagement portion 216 may be a manipulatable structure that is moveable relative to the main portion 212. For example, the engagement portion 216 may be configured to slide or twist relative to the main portion 212, as described herein. The handle assembly 210 may detect the manipulations of the engagement portion 216 and generate one or more control signals for manipulating the luggage article 200 in a corresponding manner. In this regard, the engagement portion 216 may define at least a portion of a gripping surface or other feature that is configured to receive input (e.g., physical manipulations) from the user.

While the engagement portion 216 may be arranged in a variety of manners, the example of FIG. 2 shows the engagement portion 216 positioned at least partially within a notched region defined by the main portion 212. In particular, the main portion cap 214 b may define the notched region 218 between a first end region 201 a and a second end region 201 b of the handle assembly 210. The engagement portion 216 may be positioned at least partially within the notched region 218 and be allowed to move therein. For example, the engagement portion 216 may be separated from one or both of the end regions 201 a, 201 b by a gap 220. The engagement portion 216, as depicted in FIGS. 3A-4B, may therefore move within the notched region 218, such as by sliding laterally toward one or both of the end regions 201 a, 201 b and thus reduce the gap 220 and/or twisting or rotating (e.g., FIGS. 4A and 4B) about a normal axis of the handle assembly 210 extending from a top surface of the engagement portion 216. The twisting or rotating motion may also be described as the engagement portion 216 moving from a first orientation in alignment with the length of the main portion 212 between the tubes 206 to a first orientation out of alignment with the length of the main portion 212 extending between the retractable members 206. When out of alignment with the length of the main portion 212, the opposing ends of the engagement portion are each displaced from the length of extension of the main portion 212. The movement of the engagement portion may be pivoting about a single pivot location, such as about a pivot point located on the main portion (with the pivot axis being not parallel to, and for example normal to, the length of the main portion), or may be a combination of pivoting and translating (e.g. sliding) from the first orientation to the second orientation relative to the main portion 212. In some examples, the twisting or rotating motion may be in a single plane or may be in more than one plane.

Notwithstanding the movement of the engagement portion 216, the engagement portion 216 may remain substantially contained within the notched region 218. For example, in a first mode, the engagement portion 216 may slide laterally between the respective end regions 201 a, 201 b and remain substantially within the notched region 218. Further, in a second mode, the engagement portion 216 may rotate or twist about the normal axis extending from the top surface of the handle assembly 210, and the engagement portion 216 may remain substantially within the notched region 218. This may help shield or protect the engagement portion 216 from unintended manipulations or movements. And further, the main portion 212, such as the main portion cap 214 b that defines a boundary of the notched region 218, may limit or define a maximum range of movement of the engagement portion 216, which may help limit exposure of the engagement portion 216 (and associated internal sensors and assemblies) to excess or undue forces. As a further protection mechanism, top surfaces of the end regions 201 a, 201 b of the main portion cap 214 b may be substantially flush with the top surface of the engagement portion 216 in the unactuated configuration shown in FIG. 2. This may help promote a consistent profile of the handle assembly 210, allowing for the handle assembly 210 (including the engagement portion 216) to be received within the handle assembly mount 202 without necessarily protruding from a contour of the luggage article 200 (such as a contour of a housing of the luggage article).

The handle assemble 210 is used to detect input from a user. For example, as described herein, the handle assembly 210, may detect the physical manipulation of the engagement portion 216 relative to the main portion 212. The handle assembly 210 may therefore include various sensor assemblies, including pressure switches, that detect the movement of the engagement portion 216, including sliding and twisting of the engagement portion 216. The handle assembly 210 is shown in FIG. 2 in a substantially unactuated state or neutral state. With reference to FIGS. 3A-4B, a handle assembly shown in various actuated states, including a sliding actuation and a twisting actuation.

For example, FIGS. 3A-4B depict a luggage article 300 having a handle assembly 360. The luggage article 300 may be substantially analogous to the luggage article 100 and 200 described herein with respect to FIGS. 1A-2. For example, the luggage article 300 may have a housing configured to carry and enclose a user's belongings. Further, the handle assembly 360 may be configured to manipulate articulable wheels or other support structures of the luggage article 300, for example, by detecting a sliding and/or a twisting input and generating an electrical response used to cause motion (e.g., propulsion and/or steering) of the articulable wheels. As such, the luggage article 300 may include a housing 302 having any of the appropriate panels, faces, corners, shells, spilt lines, closure mechanisms, described with respect to FIGS. 1A-1G, redundant explanation of which is omitted here for clarity. For purposes of illustration in FIGS. 3A-4B, a rear isometric view of the luggage article 300 is shown, and as such, FIGS. 3A-4B depict: housing 302; front panel 304; rear panel 308; top panel 312; right side panel 324; first shell portion 332; second shell portion 336; split line 140; hinge 350 carry handle 354; retractable features 356; handle assembly mount 358; openings 359; power-assisted wheel button 366; main portion 362; engagement portion 364; wheel assembly 380; first power-assisted wheel assembly 390 a; first power-assisted wheel 396 a; second power-assisted wheel assembly 390 b; and second power-assisted wheel 396 b. It will be appreciated, however, that the luggage article 300 may include any combination of (or all of) the features of the luggage article 100, not necessarily depicted in FIGS. 3A-4B for purposes of clarity.

With reference to FIG. 3A, the luggage article 300 is shown in a configuration in which the engagement portion 364 is moved relative to the main portion 362. In particular, the engagement portion 364 is shown moved in a direction 370 a. The direction 370 a may be a sliding direction that extends along a lateral direction of the handle assembly 360. In this regard, the engagement portion 364 is shown in FIG. 3A slid along the main portion 362 toward a respective end region. For example, the engagement portion 364 may be slid toward the front panel 304.

One or more sensors of the luggage article 300, such as those disposed within the handle assembly 360, may detect the movement of the engagement portion 364 along the direction 370 a. Such sensors, described in greater detail below with respect to FIGS. 5-10, may also be configured to detect a magnitude or degree of movement of the engagement portion 364 along the direction 370 a. In response to a detect of the movement of the engagement portion 364, the luggage article 300 may move in a corresponding direction. For example, various control mechanism of the luggage article 300 may cause the support members 380 to move, including orientating the support members 380 in order to steer or position the luggage article 300, for example, in a direction corresponding to the direction 370 a.

In the example of FIGS. 3A-4B, the luggage article 300 includes the power-assisted wheel assemblies 390 a, 390 b. Each of the power-assisted wheel assemblies includes a power-assisted wheel, as described herein, such as the first power-assisted wheel 396 a and the second power-assisted wheel 396 b shown in FIGS. 3A-4B. Rotation of the power-assisted wheels 396 a, 396 b may cause movement of the luggage article 300. The power-assisted wheels 396 a, 396 b may rotate in response to a detection of input at the engagement portion 364. Broadly and as illustrated with respect to FIGS. 3A-4B, the engagement portion 364 may detect a direction of input (e.g., a direction of sliding or twisting of the engagement portion 364) and the power-assisted wheels 396 a, 396 b may rotate in a manner that causes movement of the luggage article 300 in a corresponding direction. Further, the engagement portion 364 may detect a magnitude of the movement of the engagement portion 364 and the power-assisted wheels 396 a, 396 b may rotate at a rate or speed corresponding to a magnitude of the detected input.

As such, the support members 380 may follow or otherwise be caused to move and orientate by the power-assisted wheel assemblies 390 a, 390 b. Additionally or alternatively, the various control components of the luggage article 300 may directly articulate one or more of the support members 380, including in some cases causing one or more of the support members 380 to move and propel the luggage article 300 in a given direction. In this regard, while FIGS. 3A-4B show the operation of the power-assisted wheel assemblies 390 a, 390 b in causing movement of the luggage article 300 in response to a detection of input at the engagement portion 364, other configurations are possible and within the scope of the present disclosure.

In this regard, FIG. 3A shows the support members 380 orientated in a direction corresponding to the direction 370 a of the manipulated engagement portion 364. The support members 380 are therefore responsive to the input detected at the engagement portion 364. For example, in response to the engagement portion 364 moving in the direction 370 a (e.g., such as via user input), the support members 380 may be caused to orientate in a similar direction. Further, one or more of (or all of) the support members 380 may rotate (e.g., propel) the luggage article 300 at a rate of travel corresponding to a magnitude or degree of movement of the engagement portion 364 along the direction 370 a.

To facilitate the configuration of FIG. 3A, the first power-assisted wheel 396 a may be caused to rotate in a rotational direction 371. The second power-assisted wheel 396 b may also be caused to rotate in the rotational direction 371. For example and as described herein, one or more motors and associated power sources may be coupled to respective ones of the power-assisted wheels 396 a, 396 b. The handle assembly 160 may detect movement of the engagement portion 364 along the direction 370 a and initiate a control signal that is indicative of the direction 370 a. Such control signal may be used by the one or motors or other control components to move the power-assisted wheels 396 a, 396 b in the rotational direction 371. The rotation of each of the power-assisted wheels 396 a, 396 b in the rotational direction 371 causes movement of the luggage article 300 substantially along the direction 370 a. The support members 380, being follower-type wheel assemblies, articulate in a manner that facilitates movement of the luggage article 300 along the direction 370 a.

With reference to FIG. 3B, the luggage article 300 is shown in a configuration in which the engagement portion 364 is moved relative to the main portion 362. In particular, the engagement portion 364 is shown moved in to a direction 370 b. The direction 370 b may be a sliding direction that extends along a lateral direction of the handle assembly 360. In this regard, the engagement portion 364 is shown in FIG. 3B slid along the main portion 362 toward a respective end region. For example, the engagement portion 364 may be slid toward the rear panel 308. As such, the direction 370 b may be substantially opposing the direction 370 a shown in FIG. 3A; however, this is not required.

As described above, one or more sensors of the luggage article 300, such as those disposed within the handle assembly 360, may detect the movement of the engagement portion 364 along the direction 370 b. In turn, various control mechanisms of the luggage article 300 may cause the support members 380 to move, including orientating the support members 380 in order to steer or position the luggage article 300. In the example of FIG. 3B, the support members 380 are therefore shown orientated in a direction corresponding to the direction 370 b of the manipulated engagement portion 364. As such, the support members 380 are responsive to the input detected at the engagement portion 364. For example, in response to the engagement portion 364 moving in the direction 370 b (e.g., such as via user input), the support members 380 may be caused to orientate in a similar direction. Further, one or more of (or all of) the support members 380 may rotate (e.g., propel) the luggage article 300 at a rate of travel corresponding to a magnitude or degree of movement of the engagement portion 364 along the direction 370 b.

To facilitate the configuration of FIG. 3B, the first power-assisted wheel 396 a may be caused to rotate in a rotational direction 372. The second power-assisted wheel 396 b may also be caused to rotate in the rotational direction 372. For example and as described herein, one or more motors and associated power sources may be coupled to respective ones of the power-assisted wheels 396 a, 396 b. The handle assembly 160 may detect movement of the engagement portion 364 along the direction 370 b and initiate a control signal that is indicative of the direction 370 b. Such control signal may be used by the one or motors or other control components to move the power-assisted wheels 396 a, 396 b in the rotational direction 372. The rotation of each of the power-assisted wheels 396 a, 396 b in the rotational direction 372 causes movement of the luggage article 300 substantially along the direction 370 b. The support members 380, being follower-type wheel assemblies, articulate in a manner that facilitates movement of the luggage article 300 along the direction 370 b.

The handle assembly 360 may also be configured to detect input that is used to spin the luggage article 300 about a rotational axis. In this regard, the engagement portion 364 may be configured to twist or rotate relative to the main portion 362. For example, the engagement portion 364 may be configured to rotate about a normal axis extending from the top surface of the handle assembly 360. The rotation of the engagement portion 364 may be in range of 5 degrees to 15 degrees; however, in other cases, the engagement portion 364 may rotate less than 5 degrees or more than 15 degrees. The handle assembly 360, as described herein, may detect this rotation, and initiate an electrical response or other control signal that is used by various control components and mechanisms for movement (e.g., spinning) of the luggage article 300 in a corresponding manner.

To illustrate, with reference to FIG. 4A, the luggage article 300 is shown in a configuration in which the engagement portion 364 is moved relative to the main portion 362. In particular, the engagement portion 364 is shown moved in to a direction 370 c. The direction 370 c may be a rotational direction that continues about a normal axis 373. In this regard, the engagement portion 364 is shown in FIG. 4A at least partially rotated about the normal axis 373 in a clockwise direction. In some cases, the main portion 362 may include a notched region or other feature that operates to restrain rotation of the engagement portion 364.

As described above, one or more sensors of the luggage article 300, such as those disposed within the handle assembly 360, may detect the movement of the engagement portion 364 in the direction 370 c. In turn, various control mechanisms of the luggage article 300 may cause the support members 380 to move, including orientating the support members 380 in order to steer or position the luggage article 300. In the example of FIG. 4A, the support members 380 are therefore shown orientated in a direction corresponding to the direction 370 c of the manipulated engagement portion 364 (e.g., a clockwise rotational direction). As such, the support members 380 are responsive to the input detected at the engagement portion 364. For example, in response to the engagement portion 364 moving in the direction 370 c (e.g., such as via user input), the support members 380 may be caused to orientate in a similar direction. Further, one or more of (or all of) the support members 380 may rotate (e.g., propel) the luggage article at a rate of travel corresponding to a magnitude or degree of movement of the engagement portion 364 along the direction 370 c.

To facilitate the configuration of FIG. 4A, the first power-assisted wheel 396 a may be caused to rotate in the rotational direction 372. The second power-assisted wheel 396 b may be caused to rotate in the rotational direction 371. As such, the first power-assisted wheel 396 a and the second power-assisted wheel 372 may be caused to rotate in directions substantially opposite one another. For example and as described herein, one or more motors and associated power sources may be coupled to respective ones of the power-assisted wheels 396 a, 396 b. The handle assembly 160 may detect movement of the engagement portion 364 about the direction 370 c and initiate a control signal that is indicative of the direction 370 c. Such control signal may be used by the one or motors or other control components to move the first power-assisted wheel 396 a in the rotational direction 372 and the second power-assisted wheel 396 b in the rotational direction 371. The rotation of the power-assisted wheels 396 a, 396 b in this manner may cause movement of the luggage article 300 about the rotational direction 370 c. The support members 380, being follower-type wheel assemblies, articulate in a manner that facilitates movement of the luggage article 300 along the direction 370 c.

With reference to FIG. 4B, the luggage article is shown in a configuration in which the engagement portion 364 is moved relative to the main portion 362. In particular, the engagement portion 364 is shown moved in to a direction 370 d. The direction 370 d may be a rotational direction that continues about the normal axis 373. In this regard, the engagement portion 364 is shown in FIG. 4B at least partially rotated about the normal axis 373 in a counterclockwise direction. In some cases, the main portion 362 may include a notched region or other feature that operates to restrain rotation of the engagement portion 364.

As described above, one or more sensors of the luggage article 300, such as those disposed within the handle assembly 360, may detect the movement of the engagement portion 364 in the direction 370 d. In turn, various control mechanisms of the luggage article 300 may cause the support members 380 to move, including orientating the support members 380 in order to steer or position the luggage article 300. In the example of FIG. 4B, the support members 380 are therefore shown orientated in a direction corresponding to the direction 370 d of the manipulated engagement portion 364 (e.g., a counterclockwise rotational direction). As such, the support members 380 are responsive to the input detected at the engagement portion 364. For example, in response to the engagement portion 364 moving in the direction 370 d (e.g., such as via user input), the support members 380 may be caused to orientate in a similar direction. Further, one or more of (or all of) the support members 380 may rotate (e.g., propel) the luggage article at a rate of travel corresponding to a magnitude or degree of movement of the engagement portion 364 along the direction 370 d.

To facilitate the configuration of FIG. 4B, the first power-assisted wheel 396 a may be caused to rotate in the rotational direction 371. The second power-assisted wheel 396 b may be caused to rotate in the rotational direction 372. As such, the first power-assisted wheel 396 a and the second power-assisted wheel 372 may be caused to rotate in directions substantially opposite one another. For example and as described herein, one or more motors and associated power sources may be coupled to respective ones of the power-assisted wheels 396 a, 396 b. The handle assembly 160 may detect movement of the engagement portion 364 about the direction 370 d and initiate a control signal that is indicative of the direction 370 d. Such control signal may be used by the one or motors or other control components to move the first power-assisted wheel 396 a in the rotational direction 371 and the second power-assisted wheel 396 b in the rotational direction 372. The rotation of the power-assisted wheels 396 a, 396 b in this manner may cause movement of the luggage article 300 about the rotational direction 370 d. The support members 380, being follower-type wheel assemblies, articulate in a manner that facilitates movement of the luggage article 300 along the direction 370 d.

FIGS. 5-8 depict a handle assembly 510. The handle assembly 510 incorporates one or more features of the techniques described herein, including detecting input and initiating a signal for controlling movements of an associated luggage article. In this regard, the handle assembly 510 may be substantially analogous to any of the handle assemblies described herein, including the handle assemblies 160, 210, and 360 described with respect to FIGS. 1A-4B. As such, the handle assembly 510 may include at least a: retractable features 506; a power-assisted wheel button 509; a main portion 512; a main portion shell 514 a; a main portion cap 514 b; an engagement portion 516; and a notched region 518, redundant explanation of which is omitted here for clarity.

With reference to FIG. 5, a partial exploded view of the handle assembly 510 is shown. In the partial exploded view of FIG. 5, the engagement portion 516 is shown exploded from the main portion 512. As described above with respect to FIGS. 1A-1G, the engagement portion 516 may be substantially received by the notched region 518. When the engagement portion 516 is received within the notched region 518, a top surface of the engagement portion 516 may be substantially flush with top surfaces of the respective end regions of the main portion 512, such as a first end region 501 a and the second end region 501 b. The engagement portion 516 may move within the notched region 518. For example, the engagement portion 516 may move laterally (e.g., side-to-side or laterally between the first end region 501 a and the second end region 501 b) within the notched region 518. The engagement portion 516 may also rotate or twist within the notched region, as described herein.

The handle assembly 510 includes various sensor assemblies and structures that cooperate to detect the movements of the engagement portion 516. In the example of FIG. 5, the handle assembly 510 includes structures that are moveable in order to close or otherwise trigger a switch event in response to the movements (e.g., the sliding and/or the twisting) of the engagement portion 516. For example, movement of the engagement portion 516 may cause movement of one or more internal structures of the handle assembly 510, which may cause a contact-based switch to initiate a signal. The signal or electrical response more generally may also be indicative of a magnitude of the input. The signal is communicated to one or more control components of the associate luggage article. The control components may use the electrical response (also referred to herein as “control signal”) to control (e.g., propel, steers, etc.) articulable wheels or other support members of the luggage article. It will be appreciated, however, that while pressure- and contact-based switches and devices are shown in the examples of FIGS. 5-8, in other in other examples, other sensors and switches can be used, including non-contact-based or proximity sensors and switches, described in greater detail below with respect to FIG. 10.

In order to facilitate input detection at the engagement portion 516, in the example of FIG. 5, one or more structures may be configured for engagement with an underside 517 of the engagement portion 516. As such, upon movement of the engagement portion 516, such structures may be moved or otherwise contacted. In particular, FIG. 5 shows the main portion 512 having through portions 522. Extending through one or more of (or each of) the through portions 522 are lateral engagement portions 524. The lateral engagement portions 524 may be configured for engagement with the underside 517 of the engagement portion 516. For example, the lateral engagement portion 524 may be posts, pillars, studs, and/or other features that are received by corresponding features positioned along the underside 517 of the engagement portion 516. The lateral engagement portions 524 are connected to the engagement portion 516 in a manner that causes movement of the lateral engagement portions 524 in response to movement of the engagement portion 516. As described in greater detail below with respect to FIGS. 6-8, the lateral engagement portions 524 may be connected to or otherwise form a component of a sensing structure, assembly, module, and so on. In this regard, the lateral engagement portions 524 may move and cause a sensor or switch to close, and thus produce an electrical response indicative of the movement of the engagement portion 516.

In the example shown in FIG. 5, the lateral engagement portions 524 may be grouped in pairs that are associated with a sensor that detects a particular direction of movement of the engagement portion 516. For example, two of the lateral engagement portions 524 positioned adjacent the first end portion 501 a, may be components of a first lateral sliding sensor 525 a and another two of the lateral engagement portions 524 positioned adjacent the second end portion 501 b may be components of a second lateral sliding sensor 525 b. As described in greater detail below with respect to FIGS. 6-8, the first lateral sliding sensor 525 a may be configured to detect movement (including a magnitude of the movement) of the engagement portion 516 in a first lateral direction, whereas the second lateral sliding sensor 525 b may be configured to detect movement (including a magnitude of the movement) of the engagement portion 516 in a second lateral direction.

To illustrate, the engagement portion 516 may be moved along a positive x-direction (e.g., toward the second end portion 501 b). This movement along the positive x-direction may cause the lateral engagement portions 524 associated with the first lateral sliding sensor 525 a to move in a corresponding direction. Such movement of the lateral engagement portion 524 associated with the first lateral sliding sensor 525 a may cause a sensor, such as a pressure-based contact switch to trigger a switch event indicative of the sliding movement of the engagement portion 516. The engagement portion 516 may also be moved along a negative x-direction (e.g., toward the first end portion 501 a). This movement along the negative x-direction may cause the lateral engagement portion 524 associated with the second lateral sliding sensor 525 b to move in a corresponding direction. And similar to the first lateral sliding sensor 525 a, such movement of the lateral engagement portions 524 associated with the second lateral sliding sensor 525 b may cause a sensor, such as a pressure-based contact switch to trigger a switch event indicative of the sliding movement of the engagement portion 516.

The handle assembly 510 also include various structures that are configured to detect rotational movements of the engagement portion 516. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the main portion 512 includes a guide feature 526 that are positioned along a side of the handle assembly. Disposed within each of the guide features 526 are rotational engagement features 527. The rotational engagement features 527 may be configured to be moved or contacted by the engagement portion 516. For example, the rotational engagement feature 527 may be received by a portion of and/or positioned adjacent to, the underside 517 of the engagement portion 516. The engagement portion 516 may twist or rotate about the y-axis (e.g., in a clockwise and/or counterclockwise manner, as described herein). The rotational movements of the engagement portion 516 may therefore cause movement of a corresponding one of the rotational engagement features 527.

Each of the rotational engagement features 527 may be components of or associated with a rotational sensor of the handle assembly 510. For example, a first of the rotational engagement features 527 positioned adjacent the first end portion 501 a may be associated with a first rotational sensor 529 a. Another of the rotational engagement features 527 positioned adjacent the second end portion 501 b may be associated with a second rotational sensor 529 b. As described in greater detail below with respect to FIGS. 6-8, the first rotational sensor 529 a may be configured to detect movement (including a magnitude of the movement) of the engagement portion 516 in a first rotational direction, whereas the second rotational sensor 529 b may be configured to detect movement (including a magnitude of the movement) of the engagement portion 516 in a second rotational direction.

To illustrate, the engagement portion 516 may be rotated or twisted in a positive manner about the y-direction (e.g., in a clockwise manner). This rotation about the y-direction may cause the rotational engagement portion 527 associated with the first rotational sensor 529 a to move at least partially into the main portion 512. Such movement of the rotational engagement portion 527 associated with the first rotational sensor 529 a may cause a sensor, such as a pressure-based contact switch to trigger a switch event indicative of the rotational movement of the engagement portion 516. The engagement portion 516 may also be moved in a negative manner about the y-direction (e.g., toward the first end portion 501 a). This movement about the y-direction may cause the rotational engagement portion 527 associated with the second rotational sensor 529 b to move at least partially into the main portion 512. And similar to the first rotational sensor 529 a, such movement of the rotational engagement portion 527 associated with the second rotational sensor 529 b may cause a sensor, such as a pressure-based contact switch to trigger a switch event indicative of the sliding movement of the engagement portion 516.

FIG. 6 shows the handle assembly 510 of FIG. 5 in a configuration in which the main portion cap 514 b is removed. With the main portion cap 514 b removed, a housing interior 513 of the main portion shell 514 a is exposed. The housing interior 513 may be configured to receive the various sensors, switches, and assemblies described herein that are configured to detect the input received by the handle assembly 510. In the example of FIG. 6, the first lateral sliding sensor 525 a and the second lateral sliding sensor 525 b are shown positioned within the housing interior 513. As further shown in FIG. 6, the first rotational sensor 529 a and the second rotational sensor 529 b are shown positioned within the housing interior 513.

As described above, the first rotational sensor 529 a and the second rotational sensor 529 b may be configured to detect rotational or twisting input received at the handle assembly 510. For example, and with reference to FIG. 5, the first rotational sensor 529 a may be configured to detect a rotation of the engagement portion 516 in a generally clockwise direction. Further, the second rotational sensor 529 b may be configured to detect a rotation of the engagement portion 516 in a generally counterclockwise direction. To facilitate the forgoing, each of the first rotational sensors may include a rotational engagement portion 528 or button that is configured to be contacted by an underside of the engagement portion in response to the rotational movement. In this regard, the rotational engagement portion 528 may be positioned along a side of the main portion 512 and at least partially outside of the housing interior 513.

The rotational engagement portion 528 may be depressed by the engagement portion 516 (or other input surface of the handle assembly 510) and one or more switches or sensors may detect the depression of the rotational engagement portion 528. In this regard, the rotational engagement portion 528 may be connected or otherwise associated with a contact sensor 528. The contact sensor 528 may include a variety of sensors that are configured to detect the depression of the rotational engagement portion 527, including resistive and capacitive-based configurations. In some cases, the contact sensor 528 may be or include a pressure switch or other device that measures the magnitude or value of the depression of the engagement portion 528.

Each contact switch may therefore produce an electrical response in response to a rotational movement of the engagement portion 516. For example, the contact sensor 528 associated with the first rotational sensor 529 a may produce a first electrical response or control signal in response to the movement of the engagement portion 516 in a generally clockwise direction. Similarly, the contact sensor 528 associated with the second rotational sensor 529 b may produce a second electrical response or control signal in response to the movement of the engagement portion 516 in a generally counterclockwise direction. A processing unit and/or other control circuitry or logic of the handle assembly 510 (or more generally of an associated luggage article) may distinguish between the electrical response from the contact switch of the first rotational sensor 529 a and the electrical response of the contact switch of the second rotational sensor 529 b. Such processing unit may also optionally determine information from the associated electrical response as to the magnitude or degree of rotational movement of the engagement portion, if applicable. In turn, this information may be used to manipulate movement of the luggage article, including using one or more control mechanisms, described herein.

FIG. 6 further shows each of the first rotational sensor 529 a and the second rotational sensor 529 b covered by an electromagnetic shield. In particular, FIG. 6 shows a cutaway view of a shield 590. The shield 590 may facilitate operation of the first rotational sensor 529 a and/or the second rotational sensor 529 b, for example, by mitigating interference from electromagnetic signals and/or other environmental noise. While the shield 590 is shown in FIG. 6 as positioned at least partially over the first rotational sensor 529 a and the second rotational sensor 529 b, the shield 590 may extend over substantially all components (or a subset thereof) of the handle assembly 510, including over each of the sensors of the handle assembly 510, described herein.

The housing interior 513 also includes the lateral sliding sensors positioned herein. As described above, the first lateral sliding sensor 525 a and the second lateral sliding sensor 525 b may be configured to detect a sliding input received at the handle assembly 510. For example and with reference to FIG. 5, the first sliding sensor 525 a may be configured to detect a sliding of the engagement portion 516 along a positive x-direction. Further, the second sliding sensor 525 b may be configured to detect a sliding of the engagement portion 516 along a negative x-direction.

To facilitate the foregoing, the lateral engagement portions 524 are shown connected to a moveable structure positioned within the housing interior 513. The moveable structure may engage a contact-based switch when moved, and as such, allow for the detection of the sliding movement of the engagement portion 516 of FIG. 5 (which causes movement of the lateral engagement portion 524). In the particular example of FIG. 6, the lateral engagement portion 524 may be connected to a sled 530. The sled 530 may be slideable within the housing 513 in response to movement of the lateral engagement portion 524. As shown in FIG. 6, the sled 530 may be connected to at least two lateral engagement portion 524, however, in other cases other configurations are possible.

Within the housing interior 513 is a guide 532. The guide 532 may generally be fixed within the housing interior 513, such as to an interior surface of a main portion shell 514 a. In the example of the FIG. 6, the main portion shell 514 a includes posts 515 and the guide 532 is secured within the housing interior 513 using the posts 515. The guide 532 may be configured for engagement with the sled 530. In particular, the guide 532 may direct sliding movement of the sled 530 within the housing interior 513. For example, as described in greater detail below with respect to FIG. 7, the sled 530 may include guide pins, rails, or other guide structures that are received by the guide 532, for example, such as at an internal track 534.

A sensor, such as a contact-based pressure sensor, may be generally arranged between the sled 530 and the guide 532. Accordingly, the sled 530 may move toward the sensor in response to movements of the lateral engagement portion 524, which may cause a contact with the sensor disposed between the sled 530 and the guide 532. In turn, the sensor may generate an electrical response including a control signal indicative of a sliding movement of the engagement portion 516 connected to the corresponding lateral engagement portion 524. In some cases, this response may include information associated with a magnitude or value of the sliding movement.

In this regard, more broadly, each of the first later lateral sliding sensor 525 a and the second lateral sliding sensor 525 b may produce an electrical response associated with sliding movements of the engagement portion. For example, the first lateral sliding sensor 525 a may produce a first electrical response or control signal in response to the movement of the engagement portion 516 in a generally positive x direction. Similarly, the second lateral sliding sensor 525 b may produce a second electrical response or control signal in response to the movement of the engagement portion 516 in a generally negative x direction. A processing unit and/or other control circuitry or logic of the handle assembly 510 (or more generally of an associated luggage article) may distinguish between the electrical response from the first lateral sliding sensor 525 a and the second lateral sliding sensor 525 b. Such processing unit may also optionally determine information from the associated electrical response as to the magnitude or degree of rotational movement of the engagement portion, if applicable. In turn, this information may be used to manipulate movement of an associated luggage article, including using one or more control mechanisms, described herein.

To illustrate the particular operation and components of the lateral sliding sensors, with reference to FIG. 7, an exploded view of the second lateral sliding sensor 525 b is shown. While the second lateral sliding sensor 525 b is shown and described, it will be appreciated that the first lateral sliding sensor 525 a may include similar components and/or function in a similar manner.

In the exploded view of FIG. 7, a contact sensor 544 is shown. The contact sensor 544 may be a pressure-based switch that initiates a signal in response to a force input. The force input may be caused by movements of the sled, and as such, thru contact sensor may initiate a signal indicative of sliding inputs received at the engagement portion 516, as described herein.

To facilitate the foregoing, the contact sensor 544 is generally positioned between the sled 530 and the guide 532. The sled 530 moves relative to the guide 532, which in turn causes the contact sensor 544 to trigger a switch event, such as initiate an electrical response indicative of the movement of the sled 530. In this regard, the contact sensor 544 may include a variety of sensor types that are configured to detect the movement of the sled 530, including resistive and capacitive-based configurations. In some cases, the contact sensor 544 may be or include a pressure switch or other configuration that measures the magnitude or value of the movement of the sled 530.

The sled 530 is shown connected to a pair of the lateral engagement portions 524. The pair of lateral engagement portions 524 may be connected to an engagement portion of the handle assembly (e.g., engagement portion 516 of FIG. 5). Accordingly, sliding movements of the engagement portion may cause the lateral engagement portions 524 to move correspondingly and thus also move the sled 530.

The sled 530 may include or be coupled with a variety of features that facilitate movement of the sled 530 toward the contact sensor 544. In the example of FIG. 7, the sled 530 is associated with guide pins 536. The guide pins 536 may be elongated features that are configured to be received within a corresponding internal track 534 of the guide 532. In an unactuated state, the guide pins 536 may each be at least partially positioned within the corresponding internal track 534. Movement of the engagement portion may cause the sled 530 to move, and the guide pins 536 and the internal track 534 may cooperate to direct the movement of the sled 530 toward the contact sensor 544 and the guide 532.

The contact sensor 544 may be at least partially separated from the sled 530 by plate 538. For example, in an assembled configuration the contact sensor 544 may be positioned adjacent the guide 532 and the plate 538 may be positioned adjacent the contact sensor 544 opposite the guide 532. The plate 538 may generally help secure the contact sensor 544 within the assembly and/or align or maintain a position of the contact sensor 544. In this regard, the plate 538 may be secured to the guide 532 using fasteners 539. The fasteners 539 may extend through the plate 538 and into the guide 532 (such as being threaded into receiving features of the guide 532) however in other cases, other fastener types are possible.

The plate 538 therefore may include multiple openings. At least some of the openings may be used for secure the plate 538 to the guide 532. Other openings, such as guide pin openings 540 a and 540 b, may be generally aligned with corresponding ones of the guide pins 536 and the internal track 534. The guide pins 536 may be at least partially positioned within and configured to slide along the guide pin openings 540 a, 540 b. This may further enhance stability of the guide pins 536 and more generally the sled 530 in response to movement of the sled 530. At least one opening of the plate 538 may be aligned with a contact region of the contact sensor 544. For example, the plate 538 shows a sensor opening 540 c. The sled 530 may engage one or more features of the assembly through the sensor opening 540 c which causes the contact sensor 544 to detect movement of the sled 530 and trigger a switch event.

To illustrate, FIG. 7 shows a tactile feedback structure 541. In an assembled configuration, the tactile feedback structure 541 may extend through the sensor opening 540 c and engage a surface of the sled 530. The tactile feedback structure 541 shown in FIG. 7 is a spring, and as such, may exert a biasing force when compressed. The tactile feedback structure 541 is shown positioned adjacent a contact 542. The contact 542 may be a strike plate or other feature that is configured to press against or otherwise contact the contact sensor 544. In this regard, the sled 530 may engage and compress the tactile feedback structure 541. When compressed, the tactile feedback structure 541 may exert a biasing force on the contact 542 that causes the contact 542 to move toward and contact the contact sensor 544.

In some cases, the physical engagement between the contact 542 and the contact sensor 544 may close a circuit that causes the contact sensor 544 to initiate an electrical response. The electrical response may be indicative of the movement of the engagement portion 516, for example, to the extent that the movement of the engagement portion causes movement of the sled 530 that closes a circuit of the contact sensor 544. In some cases, the contact sensor 544 may be a pressure sensor and as such, may initiate an electrical response indicative of a degree of movement of the sled 530. For example, as the sled 530 is moved closer toward the contact sensor 544, the force exerted on the contact sensor 544 by the contact 542 may increase. The contact sensor 544 may detect this increase in force, such as by detecting an increase resistance within circuitry of the contact sensor 544, and initiate a corresponding electrical response. In this manner, the electrical response may be based on the magnitude of the movement of the sled 530.

With reference to FIG. 8, the handle assembly 510 is shown in a configuration in which the sensors for detecting the sliding and twisting of the engagement portion 516 have been removed. In particular, FIG. 8 shows the handle assembly 510 shown in FIG. 6 having each of the first lateral sliding sensor 525 a, the second lateral sliding sensor 525 b, the first rotational sensor 529 a, and the second rotational sensor 529 b removed. With the foregoing sensor removed, FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the main portion shell 514 a and the various internals features that are used to control movement of the telescoping poles or trolley rails, such as the retractable features 506.

In particular, the handle assembly 510 may include a retractable feature control assembly 550. The retractable feature control assembly 550 may be positioned generally within an interior of the main portion 512, such as within the housing interior 513. The retractable feature control assembly 550 may include a variety of linkages and control features that release the retractable features from a given position and allow the retractable features 506 to slide or telescope relative to an associated luggage article.

To facilitate the foregoing, the retractable feature control assembly 550 may include a first linkage 552 a and a second linkage 552 b. The first linkage 552 a and the second linkage 552 b may be coupled with the retractable feature button 508. The retractable feature button 508 may be substantially located at bottom portion of the handle assembly 510, however in other cases, other configurations are possible. Each of the first linkage 552 a and the second linkage 552 b may further be coupled with the internal rods 570 at a respective rail manipulation portion 556. The internal rods 570, as described with respect to FIGS. 1A-1G may be configured to release the retractable features 506 for telescoping movement.

In operation, the retractable feature button 508 may be configured to receive input from a user. This may be a push input that at least partially depresses a portion of the button inward, which in turn causes one or both of the linkages 552 a, 552 b to move. Movement of one or both of the linkages 552 a, 552 b may manipulate the internal rods 570 at the rail manipulation portion 556, causing the internal rods 570 to move within the retractable features 506. The internal rods 570 extend into the retractable feature 506 and toward locking mechanisms within the luggage article that temporarily retrain movement of the retractable features 506. As described above with respect to FIGS. 1A-1G, movement of the internal rods 570 in this manner may disengage the locking mechanism and thereby release one or both of the retractable features 506 from a given position, permitting movement of the retractable features 506, including telescoping movement.

As a further illustration, the retractable features 506 may generally slide from a first retracted position to a second extended position. In either the first retracted position or the second extended position, the retractable features 506 may be prevented from relative movement. For example, a clip, pin, lock, or other structure may mitigate relative movement of the retractable features in either position. The movement of the internal rods 570 caused by the input at the retractable feature button 508 may release or unseat the clip, pin, or the like, and thus permit the movement of the retractable features 506 into another telescoping position. In other examples, other configurations may be possible.

To facilitate the reader's understanding of the various functionalities of the examples discussed herein, reference is now made to the flow diagram in FIG. 9, which illustrates process 900. While specific steps (and orders of steps) of the methods presented herein have been illustrated and will be discussed, other methods (including more, fewer, or different steps than those illustrated) consistent with the teachings presented herein are also envisioned and encompassed with the present disclosure.

In this regard, with reference to FIG. 9, process 900 relates generally to a method for steering a luggage article. The process 900 may be used with any of the luggage articles and handle assemblies described herein, for example, such as the luggage article 100, 200 and/or handle assemblies 160, 210, 360, 510 and variations and combinations thereof.

At operation 904, relative movement between housing portions of a handle assembly is detected. For example and with reference to FIGS. 5-8 movement of the engagement portion 516 may be detected relative to the main portion 512. The engagement portion 516 and the main portion 512 may each be housing portions that collectively define a housing assembly. The movement of the engagement portion 516 may be detected by one or more sensors or sensor assemblies within a handle assembly. For example, the first and second lateral sliding sensors 525 a, 525 b may detect lateral sliding of the engagement portion 516 in a first and opposing second direction. Additionally or alternatively, the first and second rotational sensor 529 a, 529 b may detect rotational movement of the engagement portion 516 (including twisting of the engagement portion 516).

At operation 908, wheels of a luggage article are orientated based on the relative movement detected at the operation 904. For example and with reference to FIGS. 1A-1G, the luggage article 100 may include the support members 180 having wheel portions 182. The wheel portions 182 may be articulable using an articulable portion 184. The control components 190 (including the first power-assisted assembly 190 a and the second power-assisted wheel assembly 190 b) and/or other components may orientate the support members 180 in a particular direction based on the movement detected in the operation 904. For example, one or more of the sensors of the handle assembly 160 may initiate an electrical response in response to a detection of the movement of the engagement portion 516. The electrical response may be indicative of one or more of a lateral sliding or rotational movement of the engagement portion 516. The first power-assisted wheel assembly 190 a and/or the second power-assisted wheel assembly 190 b may receive the electrical response from the handle assembly sensors and cause the support members 180 to move accordingly. For example, the power-assisted wheel assemblies 190 a, 190 b may include power-assisted wheels that rotate by various motor or electrically actuated drives. The electrical response may cause the power-assisted wheels to move in a direction corresponding to a direction of the detected input. In turn, this may cause the support members 180 to orientate in a direction corresponding to the movement of the engagement portion 516 (e.g., such as the orientations shown and described herein with respect to FIGS. 3A-4B).

At operation 912, a magnitude of the relative movement is determined. For example, with reference to FIGS. 5-8, a degree or amount of movement of the engagement portion 516 may be detected by a contact-based sensor. As explained herein the contact sensor 528, the contact sensor 544, and/or any other sensor described herein may include resistive elements or other circuitry that cooperates to generate an electrical response based on a degree of movement of the engagement portion. As one example, as the sled 530 moves closer to the guide 532, the tactile feedback structure 541 may be compressed and thus cause an increasingly greater amount of force to be exerted on the contact sensor 544. The contact sensor 544 may detect the increased force and initiate an electrical response based on the force, which is indicative of the magnitude of the movements of the engagement portion 516.

At operation 916, the speed of the wheels is controlled based on the magnitude detected at the operation 912. For example, with reference to FIGS. 1A-1G, the luggage article 100 may include the support members 180 having wheel portions 182. The first power-assisted wheel assembly 190 a and the second power-assisted wheel assembly 190 b may include power-assisted wheels that rotate at a rate corresponding to the magnitude detected at the operation 912. For example, the power-assisted wheel assemblies 190 a, 190 b may receive the electrical response from the handle assembly sensors and cause the support members 180 to move at a corresponding rate.

FIG. 10 depicts a functional block diagram of a luggage article 1000. The schematic representation in FIG. 10 may be representative of luggage articles 100, 200, and 300 described herein above with respect to FIGS. 1A-4B. However, FIG. 10 may also more generally represent other types of luggage articles, including associated devices and configurations, that may be used to detect input and steer a luggage article in accordance with the examples described herein. In this regard, the luggage article 1000 may include any appropriate hardware (e.g., computing devices, data centers, switches), software (e.g., applications, system programs, engines), network components (e.g., communication paths, interfaces, routers) and the like (not necessarily shown in the interest of clarity) for use in facilitating any appropriate operations disclosed herein.

As shown in FIG. 10, the luggage article 1000 may include a steering device 1004. The steering device 1004 may include a variety of electromechanical mechanisms that cause support members (e.g., wheels) of the luggage article to orientate in a given direction. Sample mechanism include induction-drive units, including high-torque configurations, rotary actuators, including variable speed drives. In other cases, pneumatics or hydraulic-based systems may be used. The steering device 1004 may also include or be integrated with a controller, processing unit, or other control logic of the luggage article 1000, described herein below. Accordingly, the steering device 1004 may cause the support members of the luggage article 1000 to orientate in a particular direction based on an electrical response or control signal, such as that initiated in response to input detected at a handle assembly or other input surface.

The steering device 1004 may include components of the power-assisted wheel assemblies described herein, for example, such as the power-assisted wheel assemblies 190 a, 190 b of FIGS. 1A-1G. The luggage article 1000 may generally include two power-assisted wheel assemblies, each having a power-assisted wheel, that cooperate to steer the luggage article 1000 in a given direction. For example and as shown with respect to FIGS. 3A-4B, a pair of power-assisted wheel assemblies may rotate power-assisted wheels in various directions in order to allow the luggage article 1000 to be steered in a first and second lateral direction, as a well as a substantially clockwise and counterclockwise direction. This may allow the steering device 1004 to cause support members (such as caster wheels at corner regions of the luggage article) to orientate in a given direction.

The luggage article 1000 may also include a drive device 1008. Broadly, the drive device 1008 may include a variety of electromechanical mechanisms that cause support members (e.g., wheels) of the luggage article to move or propel the luggage article 1000. For example, the luggage article 1000 may include a variety of wheels and the drive device 1008 may cause the wheels to rotate along a support surface or other environment upon which the luggage article rests. In this regard, the drive device 1008 may include similar electromechanical mechanisms as that described in relation to the steering device 1004 above, including rotary actuators, and induction units.

The drive device 1008 may generally include components of the power-assisted wheel assemblies described herein, for example, such as the power-assisted wheel assemblies 190 a, 190 b of FIGS. 1A-1G. In other cases, the drive device 1008 may be integrated into other wheels or support members of the luggage article 1000. As one example, a micro-induction-based unit may be integrated about an axel or axis or rotation of one or more of the wheels. The unit may be actuated in response to a control signal from a processing unit or other control logic of the luggage article 1000, thereby causing the wheel to move.

As noted above, each of the steering device 1004 and the drive device 1008 may be communicatively coupled with a processing unit of the luggage article 1000. As shown in FIG. 10, the luggage article 1000 may further include a processing unit or element 1012 operatively connected to computer memory 1016 and computer-readable media 1020. The processing unit 1012 may be operatively connected to the memory 1016 and computer-readable media 1020 components via an electronic bus or bridge (e.g., such as system bus 1044). The processing unit 1012 may include one or more computer processors or microcontrollers that are configured to perform operations in response to computer-readable instructions.

The memory 1016 may include a variety of types of non-transitory computer-readable storage media, including, for example, read access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable memory (e.g., EPROM and EEPROM), or flash memory. The memory 1016 is configured to store computer-readable instructions, sensor values, and other persistent software elements. Computer-readable media 1020 may also include a variety of types of non-transitory computer-readable storage media including, for example, a hard-drive storage device, a solid state storage device, a portable magnetic storage device, or other similar device.

In this example, the processing unit 1012 is operable to read computer-readable instructions stored on the memory 1016 and/or computer-readable media 1020. The computer-readable instructions may adapt the processing unit 1012 to perform the operations or functions described above with respect to FIGS. 1A-9. The computer-readable instructions may be provided as a computer-program product, software application, or the like.

As shown in FIG. 10, the luggage article 1000 may also include a display 1036. The display 1036 may include a liquid-crystal display (LCD), organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, light emitting diode (LED) display, or the like. If the display 1036 is an LCD, the display may also include a backlight component that can be controlled to provide variable levels of display brightness. If the display 1036 is an OLED or LED type display, the brightness of the display 1036 may be controlled by modifying the electrical signals that are provided to display elements.

The luggage article 1000 may also include a battery 1030 that is configured to provide electrical power to the components of the luggage article 1000. The battery 1030 may include one or more power storage cells that are linked together to provide an internal supply of electrical power. In this regard, the battery 1030 may be a component of a power source 1028 (e.g., including a charging system or other circuitry that supplies electrical power to components of the luggage article 1000). The battery 1030 may be operatively coupled to power management circuitry that is configured to provide appropriate voltage and power levels for individual components or groups of components within the luggage article 1000.

The luggage article 1000 may also include one or more sensors 1024. The sensor 1024 may include the various lateral sliding and rotational sensors described herein that are configured to detect sliding and/or rotational input. Additionally or alternatively, the luggage article 1000 may include other sensors used to detect a touch and/or force input, environmental condition, orientation, position, or some other aspect of the luggage article 1000. In this regard, the sensors 1024 may be used to detect an input at a touch-sensitive display (e.g., display 1036) of the luggage article 1000 and/or other surface or feature, such as a handle assembly or other external surface of the luggage article 1000 defined by an outer enclosure or shell. This may include resistive and contact based sensors may also be used, for example, such as those described above with respect to the lateral sliding sensors and rotational sensors of FIGS. 5-8.

The sensors 1024 may also be broadly defined to include wireless positioning devices including, without limitation, global positioning system (GPS) circuitry, Wi-Fi circuitry, cellular communication circuitry, and the like. As such, the sensors 1024 may be used to identify an environment of the luggage article 1000. The luggage article 1000 may also include one or more optical sensors including, without limitation, photo-detectors, photosensors, image sensors, infrared sensors, or the like. The sensors 1024 may also include one or more acoustic elements, such as a microphone used alone or in combination with a speaker element. This may allow the luggage article 1000 to be operable by voice control, among other possibilities.

The luggage article 1000 may also include a variety of tactile feedback structures 1040. For example and described above with respect to FIGS. 5-8, a spring or other biasing element may be implemented in a handle of the luggage article 1000. The spring may provide an indication to a user as to a receipt of input (e.g., the spring induces a biasing force when the handle is slid or twisted). More broadly, the luggage article 1000 may include a variety of other mechanisms that are configured to deliver a tactile effect. Such structures may be integrated as a component of the handle assembly, or more generally, may be used in conjunction with a variety of components of the luggage article 1000, including the support members, other handle or grip portions, and so on. Sample tactile mechanisms, include, but are not limited to, piezoelectric actuators, capacitive and/or magnetic devices, frictioned surfaces or otherwise passive or active mechanisms.

The luggage article 100 may also include a communication port 1032 that is configured to transmit and/or receive signals or electrical communication from an external or separate device. The communication port 1032 may be configured to couple to an external device via a cable, adaptor, or other type of electrical connector. In some examples, the communication port 1032 may be used to couple the luggage article 1000 with a computing device and/or other appropriate accessories configured to send and/or receive electrical signals.

Other examples and implementations are within the scope and spirit of the disclosure and appended claims. For example, features implementing functions may also be physically located at various positions, including being distributed such that portions of functions are implemented at different physical locations. Also, as used herein, including in the claims, “or” as used in a list of items prefaced by “at least one of” indicates a disjunctive list such that, for example, a list of “at least one of A, B, or C” means A or B or C or AB or AC or BC or ABC (i.e., A and Band C). Further, the term “exemplary” does not mean that the described example is preferred or better than other examples.

The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, uses specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described examples. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described examples. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific examples described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not targeted to be exhaustive or to limit the examples to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. 

1. A handle assembly of a luggage article, the luggage article having articulable wheels, the handle assembly comprising: a main portion connected to a retractable feature of the luggage article; an engagement portion slideable and twistable out of alignment relative to a length of the main portion; a sensor assembly within the main portion and configured to initiate a control signal based on a sliding or a twisting of the engagement portion; and wherein the handle assembly is communicatively coupled with the luggage article for steering the articulable wheels using the control signal.
 2. The handle assembly of claim 1, wherein: the retractable feature includes two trolley rails substantially parallel to one another and retractable into a body of the luggage article; the main portion defines an elongated handle grip of the luggage article extending between the two trolley rails; the engagement portion covers the main portion opposite the two trolley rails; and the sensor assembly further comprises: a first sensor configured to detect the sliding of the engagement portion along an elongated direction of the main portion; and a second sensor configured to detect the twisting of the engagement portion about a rotational axis substantially parallel with the two trolley rails.
 3. The handle assembly of claim 2, wherein: at least one of the first sensor or the second sensor includes a pressure sensor, the pressure sensor configured to detect a magnitude of a respective one of the sliding or the twisting of the engagement portion; and the control signal indicates the magnitude detected by the pressure sensor.
 4. The handle assembly of claim 1, wherein: the sensor assembly includes a lateral engagement feature protruding from the main portion; and the engagement portion includes an underside, the underside configured to move the lateral engagement feature in response to the sliding of the engagement portion.
 5. The handle assembly of claim 4, wherein: the sensor assembly further includes a sled connected to the lateral engagement feature and within the main portion; and the lateral engagement feature and sled cooperate to move the sled laterally in response to the sliding of the engagement portion and trigger a switch event.
 6. The handle assembly of claim 4, wherein: the lateral engagement feature is a first lateral engagement feature; the sensor assembly further includes a second lateral engagement feature protruding from the main portion and offset from the first lateral engagement feature; the underside of the engagement portion is further configured to: move the first lateral engagement feature in a first direction in response to a sliding of the engagement portion in the first direction; and move the second lateral engagement feature in a second direction, substantially opposite the first direction, in response to a sliding of the engagement portion in the second direction; and the sensor assembly is configured to distinguish between the movement of the first lateral engagement feature and the movement of the second lateral engagement feature.
 7. The handle assembly of claim 1, wherein the control signal: includes information associated with a direction of movement of the engagement portion; and affects an orientation of the articulable wheels toward the direction of movement.
 8. The handle assembly of claim 1, further comprising a tactile feedback structure configured to resist one or both of the sliding or the twisting of the engagement portion.
 9. A handle assembly of a luggage article, the handle assembly comprising: a main portion defining a housing interior; an engagement portion over the housing interior, wherein: in a first mode, the engagement portion is moveable along a first direction of the main portion; and in a second mode, the engagement portion is moveable along a second direction of the main portion; and a sensor assembly within the housing interior and configured to detect a value of the movement of the engagement portion in the first direction and the second direction.
 10. The handle assembly of claim 9, wherein the sensor assembly includes one or more pressure sensors configured to detect a degree of displacement of the engagement portion in one or both of the first direction or the second direction.
 11. The handle assembly of claim 9, wherein: the first direction is a lateral direction; and the engagement portion is slideable in the first direction in the first mode.
 12. The handle assembly of claim 9, wherein: the second direction is a rotational direction; and the engagement portion is rotatable in the second direction in the second mode.
 13. The handle assembly of claim 9, wherein: the main portion defines a notched region along an exterior top surface; and the engagement portion is seated within the notched region.
 14. The handle assembly of claim 13, wherein: the main portion defines a first end region and a second end region; the notched region is arranged between the first end region and the second end region; and an exterior top surface of the engagement portion is substantially flush with each of an exterior top surface of the first end region and an exterior top surface of the second end region.
 15. The handle assembly of claim 13, wherein the engagement portion remains substantially contained within the notched region during the movement associated with each of the first mode and the second mode.
 16. A handle assembly of a luggage article, the handle assembly comprising: a housing assembly connected to a retractable feature of the luggage article, the housing assembly having a moveable engagement portion; a first sensor within the housing assembly and configured to detect a first movement of the engagement portion along a lateral direction of the housing assembly; and a second sensor within the housing assembly and configured to detect a second movement of the engagement portion about a normal axis of the housing assembly, wherein the first sensor and the second sensor are communicatively coupled with a control component of the luggage article, the control component responsive to each of the first movement of the first sensor and the second movement of the second sensor.
 17. The handle assembly of claim 16, wherein: the second sensor is a pair of second sensors; a first of the pair of second sensors is configured to detect a first rotation of the engagement portion about the normal axis and in a substantially clockwise direction; and a second of the pair of second sensors is configured to detect a second rotation of the engagement portion about the normal axis and in a substantially counterclockwise direction.
 18. The handle assembly of claim 17, wherein: the engagement portion defines an underside; each of the pair of second sensors protrude from an interior of the housing assembly and toward the underside; the underside contacts the first of the pair of second sensors in response to the first rotation of the engagement portion, thereby triggering a first rotational switch event; and the underside contacts the second of the pair of second sensors in response to the second rotation of the engagement portion, thereby triggering a second rotational switch event.
 19. The handle assembly of claim 18, wherein: the luggage article includes articulable wheels associated with the control component; in response to the first rotational switch event, the articulable wheels orient in the substantially clockwise direction; and in response to the second rotational switch event, the articulable wheels orient in the substantially counterclockwise direction.
 20. The handle assembly of claim 16, wherein: the housing assembly further comprises: a base defining an interior housing the first sensor and the second sensor; a cover substantially enclosing the base and defining a first aperture on a top surface and a second aperture on a side surface; the first sensor is at least partially positioned within the first aperture; the second sensor is at least partially positioned within the second aperture; and the engagement portion is positioned over the cover and overlapping both of the first sensor and the second sensor. 